Our Story

Christi & Debbie

“I always wanted to have a bookstore, but I got my dream and so much more,” said co-owner Debbie Taylor. She and her daughter, Christi Sheffield, took ownership of The Blue Giraffe in November 2010, fulfilling a lifelong dream of running a business together. As if by fate, Christi and Debbie crossed paths with the former shop owner who felt they were the right buyer for the special place she created.

Following God’s lead and with the support of Larry and Cliff, Debbie and Christi’s husbands, this dynamic mother-daughter team have taken great care to make The Blue Giraffe one of the happiest places on 30A. The union of Christi’s love of art and specialty gifts and Debbie’s passion for the written word has resulted in one delightful shop where customers find themselves happily lost in the sea of treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Christi and her husband moved to 30A from Atlanta, which has allowed them to slow down and embrace the coastal lifestyle. Debbie and Larry’s new home in WaterSound, Florida brings the family closer together, which makes them all very happy.

Cliff, Christi, Larry, Debbie

The Philosophy: Getting to the heart of the matter

Giraffe’s have really big hearts–two feet long and 25 lbs. on average. And a big heart is what drives the business philosophy at The Blue Giraffe. Christi and Debbie hope to always make others feel good. “Taking care of the artists and helping clients find the perfect item is always our priority,” shared co-owner Christi Sheffield. ” We aim to make everybody feel happy and uplifted when they leave The Blue Giraffe.”

Debbie and Christi are also passionate about giving back to the community, which they now call home. Supporting local charities through financial and art donations is just one of the many ways in which they demonstrate that having a big heart is a great thing.